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Nakhon Si Thammarat

Thailand · Coast · THB · 8.434000, 99.965000
Family friendly 5.7/10 · Rank 1813 of 2 709
Best season: January-April (driest)

Best for

For history lovers, nature, beaches and authentic Thailand away from tourist crowds.

Best season

January-April (driest)

Daily budget
$41.00 (≈ 3 441 ₽ · ≈ 1 435 THB)
For 7 days
$287.00 (≈ 24 085 ₽ · ≈ 10 045 THB)
Nakhon Si Thammarat is one of the oldest cities in Thailand, located on the east coast of the southern peninsula, which was an important center of Buddhism and trade in the past. The city is famous for its majestic Wat Phra Mahathat Woramahawihan temple, which houses a sacred relic — a tooth of the Buddha, as well as its rich cultural heritage. Here you can visit museums, historical parks, and enjoy the authentic atmosphere. Nakhon Si Thammarat is the perfect place for those interested in history and spirituality.
Summer
33.7°C
Winter
23.4°C
Sea
30.0°C
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Description and atmosphere

Energy

calm

Pace of life

slow

Local character

Hospitable, friendly, devout Buddhists.

Pros and cons

Pros

  • Rich historical and cultural heritage
  • Beautiful beaches and dolphins
  • Fewer tourists than the southern islands
  • Affordable prices
  • Authentic atmosphere

Cons

  • Dangerous box jellyfish with fatal outcomes
  • No lifeguards on beaches
  • Rainy season
  • Limited nightlife
Climate
Summer Temperature
Average air temperature in June–August
28.8°C
Summer Daytime Temp
Average daytime temperature in June-August
32.6°C
Summer Max Temp
Maximum daytime temperature in summer months
33.7°C
Winter Temperature
Average air temperature in December–February
26.7°C
Winter Daytime Temp
Average daytime temperature in December-February
28.9°C
Winter Min Temp
Minimum temperature in winter months
23.4°C
Summer Water Temperature
Average sea temperature in the warm season
29.0°C
Water Max Temp
Maximum water temperature in warm season
30.0°C
Rainy Season
Months with the heaviest rainfall
year-round, especially October-December
Sea and beach
Sand Type
Type of beach surface
golden and white sand
Sand Color
Colour of the beach sand
golden/white
Water Entry
Type of water entry
gentle
Waves
Level of waves
moderate
Water Clarity
Clarity of the water
good
Best Beach
Name of the most popular beach
Khanom Beach, Hat Khanom
Beach
Availability of a beach
Yes
Tides
Whether tides are noticeable
Yes
Rip Currents
Presence of dangerous rip currents
Yes
Sunbeds
Availability of sunbeds
No
Beach Cafe
Availability of a cafe or bar
Yes
Toilet / Shower
Availability of toilets and showers
No
Lifeguards
Presence of lifeguards
No
Safe for Swimming
Whether swimming is safe
Yes
Sea hazards
Sea Urchins
Presence of sea urchins
Present
Corals / Reefs
Presence of corals or reefs
None
Jellyfish
Presence of jellyfish
Present
Sharks
Presence of sharks
None
Overall Danger
Overall danger rating
high
Note

Extremely dangerous: box jellyfish with fatal outcomes. Authorities have increased patrols. Swimming is recommended only in safe zones with warnings. No lifeguards on beaches.

Sea urchins — details

  • Sea urchins occur on rocky coastal areas

Corals and reefs — details

  • 67 species of hard coral are found off the coast of Nakhon Si Thammarat, especially in the Ko Kra Archipelago — the highest diversity in the Gulf of Thailand.
  • Coral reefs are located at depths of 5 to 30 metres and do not pose a danger to swimmers in shallow water.
  • During diving, caution is advised and do not touch the corals.

Jellyfish — details

  • Box jellyfish occur along the coast, with fatal cases recorded. In August 2026, a 13-year-old boy died from a box jellyfish sting at Ban Fai Tha Beach.

Sharks — details

  • Blacktip reef sharks (Carcharhinus melanopterus) are found in the coastal waters of Nakhon Si Thammarat, as well as whale sharks and manta rays in season.
  • These species are not dangerous to swimmers and stay away from the shore.
  • No shark attacks on humans have been recorded off the coast of Nakhon Si Thammarat.
Attractions

Wat Phra Mahathat

The city's main temple with a 77-metre golden stupa containing a relic of the Buddha's tooth. One of Thailand's most sacred sites.

Khanom Beach

Long golden sand beach, famous for Irrawaddy dolphin watching in the bay.

Khao Luang National Park

Mountain national park with hiking trails, waterfalls and unique flora and fauna.

Wat Sa Kae

Historic temple with carved wooden elements and sculptures reflecting Thai culture.

Nakhon Si Thammarat City Market

Lively market with local produce, crafts and street food.

Nakhon Si Thammarat Old Town

Historic district with colonial architecture, shops and cafes.

Best areas

City Centre

Main area with the temple, markets and restaurants.

Khanom Beach

Area with the beach and dolphin watching opportunities.

Khao Luang National Park

Mountain area with hiking trails and waterfalls.

Must-try food

Rice and Curry

Traditional dish of rice with vegetable, lentil and meat curries.

Satay

Marinated chicken or beef skewers with peanut sauce.

Thai Noodles

Rice noodles with meat, vegetables and spicy broth.

Fresh Seafood

Prawns, squid and fish grilled at coastal restaurants.

Thai Tea

Sweet tea with condensed milk.

Where to go next

Khanom

Beach area with dolphin watching opportunities, ~30 km.

Songkhla

City with beaches and a historic centre, ~150 km.

Surat Thani

City with access to Koh Samui and Koh Phangan, ~150 km.

Family Friendly
Suitable for families with children
Yes
Nightlife
Level of nightlife
low
Getting there
Nearest airports
Nakhon Si Thammarat Airport (NST).
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Visa
Visa requirements
e-visa (ETA) for most countries
Best Season
Months with the most comfortable weather
January-April (driest)
Accommodation
Hostel (Dorm Bed)
Average price for a hostel dorm bed
$10.00
≈ 839 ₽ · ≈ 350 THB
3-Star Hotel
Average price for a 3-star hotel room
$24.00
≈ 2 014 ₽ · ≈ 840 THB
4-Star Hotel
Average price for a 4-star hotel room
$36.00
≈ 3 021 ₽ · ≈ 1 260 THB
5-Star Hotel
Average price for a 5-star hotel room
$44.00
≈ 3 692 ₽ · ≈ 1 540 THB
Villa / House
Average nightly rate for a villa or house
$60.00
≈ 5 035 ₽ · ≈ 2 100 THB
Apartment
Average nightly rate for an apartment
$30.00
≈ 2 518 ₽ · ≈ 1 050 THB
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Food and drinks
Lunch at a Cafe
Average price for lunch at a casual cafe
$2.80
≈ 235 ₽ · ≈ 98 THB
Dinner at a Restaurant
Average check for dinner at a nice restaurant
$12.00
≈ 1 007 ₽ · ≈ 420 THB
Coffee (Cappuccino)
Average price for a cappuccino
$2.00
≈ 168 ₽ · ≈ 70 THB
Beer (0.5L)
Average price for a 0.5L beer
$2.50
≈ 210 ₽ · ≈ 88 THB
Water (1.5L)
Average price for a 1.5L bottle of water
$0.50
≈ 42 ₽ · ≈ 18 THB
Pizza
Average price for a pizza
$5.00
≈ 420 ₽ · ≈ 175 THB
Burger
Average price for a burger
$4.00
≈ 336 ₽ · ≈ 140 THB
Dessert
Average price for a dessert
$2.50
≈ 210 ₽ · ≈ 88 THB
Fast Food Combo
Average price for a fast food combo
$6.00
≈ 504 ₽ · ≈ 210 THB
Transport
Airport Taxi
Average taxi fare from the airport to the city centre
$15.00
≈ 1 259 ₽ · ≈ 525 THB
Public Transport
Average price for a single public transport ticket
$0.80
≈ 67 ₽ · ≈ 28 THB
Short Taxi Ride
Average fare for a short taxi ride
$4.00
≈ 336 ₽ · ≈ 140 THB
Car Rental (per day)
Average daily rate for an economy car rental
$30.00
≈ 2 518 ₽ · ≈ 1 050 THB
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Activities and rentals
Bike / Scooter Rental
Average daily rate for a bike or scooter
$5.00
≈ 420 ₽ · ≈ 175 THB
Motorbike / Scooter Rental
Average daily rate for a motorbike or scooter
$8.00
≈ 671 ₽ · ≈ 280 THB
Excursion
Average price for an organised excursion
$25.00
≈ 2 098 ₽ · ≈ 875 THB
Yacht / Boat Cruise
Average price for a boat cruise
$45.00
≈ 3 776 ₽ · ≈ 1 575 THB
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Shopping
Shopping
Average amount spent on shopping
$20.00
≈ 1 678 ₽ · ≈ 700 THB
Souvenirs
Average amount spent on souvenirs
$8.00
≈ 671 ₽ · ≈ 280 THB
Tourist SIM / Internet
Average price for a tourist SIM card
$8.00
≈ 671 ₽ · ≈ 280 THB
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Frequently asked questions
Nakhon Si Thammarat: when is the best time to go?
The best season for a holiday is January-April (driest). At this time of year the weather is the most comfortable: minimal chance of rain, moderate humidity and optimal air temperature. This is also when the tourist infrastructure runs at full capacity — all hotels, restaurants and entertainment are open. If you want to save money, consider the period right after the high season ends: accommodation prices are lower, and the weather is still pleasant. You can check the temperature by month in the match-by-month tool.
Nakhon Si Thammarat: what is the weather like in summer?
In summer, the air warms up to an average of +33.7°C, during the day — up to +32.6°C. This is a great time for beach holidays and long walks. Sunscreen is recommended during the peak hours from 11:00 to 16:00.
Nakhon Si Thammarat: what is the weather like in winter?
In winter, the air temperature stays around +23.4°C, during the day — up to +28.9°C. For the winter period these are very comfortable figures that allow swimming and sunbathing. Evenings can be cooler, so a light jacket will not go amiss.
Nakhon Si Thammarat: what is the sea temperature?
The sea near the resort warms up to an average of +30.0°C in the warm season. This water temperature is considered ideal for long swims — you can stay in the sea for hours without discomfort. The water is comfortable for both adults and children. If you want to know the exact temperature by month, use the match-by-month tool.
Nakhon Si Thammarat: when is the rainy season?
The rainy season falls on year-round, especially October-December. During this period rainfall is more frequent, but usually short — the rain lasts 1-2 hours, after which the sun comes out again. Humidity is higher, so being outside may be less comfortable. At the same time, accommodation and flight prices during the rainy season are significantly lower — an excellent option for a budget holiday.
Nakhon Si Thammarat: what are the beaches like?
The beaches here are with a "golden and white sand" surface, golden/white sand, good water. The most popular beaches: Khanom Beach, Hat Khanom. The beaches have cafes and bars.
Nakhon Si Thammarat: is it safe to swim in the sea?
Swimming is allowed here, but standard precautions should be taken. The overall danger level in the sea is rated as high — swimming is only recommended in specially designated areas.
Nakhon Si Thammarat: what are the sea hazards?
The sea contains: sea urchins, jellyfish. Extremely dangerous: box jellyfish with fatal outcomes. Authorities have increased patrols. Swimming is recommended only in safe zones with warnings. No lifeguards on beaches.. It is recommended to swim in special shoes and avoid contact with marine life.
Nakhon Si Thammarat: how much does a holiday cost?
A holiday for one person will cost around $41.00 (≈ 3 441 ₽ · ≈ 1 435 THB) per day. The daily budget includes: a 3-star hotel, lunch at a cafe, dinner at a restaurant, drinking water, two public transport trips. Flights are not included in the calculation. You can calculate the cost of your holiday in more detail in the trip planning calculator across all 70 parameters.
Nakhon Si Thammarat: how much does accommodation cost?
Accommodation is available for every budget: a hostel dorm bed — $10.00 per night, a 3-star hotel room — $24.00 per night, a 4-star hotel — $36.00 per night, a five-star hotel — $44.00 per night, an apartment — $30.00 per night, a villa — $60.00 per night. In high season prices can be 20-30% higher, and in low season — lower.
Nakhon Si Thammarat: how much does food cost?
Food is one of the main expense items: lunch at an affordable cafe — $2.80, dinner at a restaurant — $12.00, a cup of cappuccino — $2.00, a 0.5L beer — $2.50, a 1.5L bottle of water — $0.50. You can eat significantly cheaper at markets and street cafes.
Nakhon Si Thammarat: how much does transport cost?
a taxi from the airport — $15.00, a single public transport ticket — $0.80, a short taxi ride — $4.00, car rental — $30.00 per day. Public transport is the most budget-friendly way to get around.
Nakhon Si Thammarat: what is there to see?
Among the main attractions are: Wat Phra Mahathat — The city's main temple with a 77-metre golden stupa containing a relic of the Buddha's tooth. One of Thailand's most sacred sites.; Khanom Beach — Long golden sand beach, famous for Irrawaddy dolphin watching in the bay.; Khao Luang National Park — Mountain national park with hiking trails, waterfalls and unique flora and fauna.; Wat Sa Kae — Historic temple with carved wooden elements and sculptures reflecting Thai culture.; Nakhon Si Thammarat City Market — Lively market with local produce, crafts and street food.. These places are worth visiting first to get a full impression of the destination.
Nakhon Si Thammarat: what local food should I try?
Be sure to try the local cuisine: Rice and Curry — Traditional dish of rice with vegetable, lentil and meat curries.; Satay — Marinated chicken or beef skewers with peanut sauce.; Thai Noodles — Rice noodles with meat, vegetables and spicy broth.; Fresh Seafood — Prawns, squid and fish grilled at coastal restaurants.; Thai Tea — Sweet tea with condensed milk.. Local dishes are an important part of the travel experience.
Nakhon Si Thammarat: what are the best areas to stay?
For accommodation you can consider the following areas: City Centre — Main area with the temple, markets and restaurants.; Khanom Beach — Area with the beach and dolphin watching opportunities.; Khao Luang National Park — Mountain area with hiking trails and waterfalls.. The choice of area depends on your preferences: active or relaxing holiday.
Nakhon Si Thammarat: is a visa required?
Visa: e-visa (ETA) for most countries. Before your trip, be sure to check the current requirements with official sources, as the rules may change.
Nakhon Si Thammarat: how do I get from the airport?
The nearest airport — Nakhon Si Thammarat Airport (code NST). You can get from the airport to the centre by taxi, the average cost is $15.00. Public transport is also available — a more budget-friendly option.
Nakhon Si Thammarat: what is the currency and how much money should I take?
Currency — THB. It is recommended to have cash for small expenses and a bank card for larger purchases. The approximate daily budget is $41.00 (≈ 3 441 ₽ · ≈ 1 435 THB). Check the current exchange rate before your trip.
Nakhon Si Thammarat: is it suitable for a holiday with children?
Yes, the destination is excellent for a family holiday with children. It has all the necessary infrastructure: well-maintained beaches, cafes and restaurants with children's menus, and entertainment for all ages.
Nakhon Si Thammarat: what is the nightlife like?
Nightlife is rated as low. There is not much nightlife, but the basics are available.
Nakhon Si Thammarat: where can I go nearby?
Nearby you can visit: Khanom — Beach area with dolphin watching opportunities, ~30 km.; Songkhla — City with beaches and a historic centre, ~150 km.; Surat Thani — City with access to Koh Samui and Koh Phangan, ~150 km.. These places are convenient to visit on a day trip.

Putivator rating

5.7/10
Overall rank: 1813 of 2 709
Rank among coastal: 1085